How To Make a Career Decision During a Global Pandemic

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Months of shutdowns and social distancing norms have deeply impacted both businesses and their employees. Lockdowns, furloughs, layoffs and a looming recession has forced people to rethink their career priorities.

Whether you are contemplating a career shift, have been forced to leave a secure job, or you’re thinking about joining an entirely new industry, remember one thing – you are not alone.

The COVID-19 pandemic has jolted us and pushed us to defy limits. If you are worried about your future, this could be the right time to consider a change of career. The ‘new normal’ is genuinely the most tumultuous time that we have seen for the last 25 years.

While several companies have slashed costs and are not hiring immediately, it is important to remember that hiring will eventually return to normality. Right now, it is essential to remain undeterred. If you are looking to reinvent your career during these challenging times, it is important to still actively work on your job search and continue networking.

Here are few insights that will help you during the tumultuous times in job search:

Think transferable skills and know what you bring to the table:

As a coach and investor, I can vouch for the fact that your skills are transferable. Your skills transcend beyond the boundaries of the industry, so don’t pigeonhole yourself to a particular sector. Take a look at your core skills or competencies – whether it be customer service, sales, or new business development – and see whether these skills can transfer into other industries. What you bring to the table makes you different from people who have been in that sector for their entire career.

Pursue Diverse Options:

The process of career change is often treacherous and difficult to navigate. However, it is extremely valuable to explore, learn and experiment with different career options, rather than just pursuing the one. Embrace learning and evolve. Flexibility in the workplace is an advantage. If you have senior management experience, have you thought about interim managers roles for specific projects? If you are searching for part-time work, have you considered an outcome-based role? Give a different perspective to your skills and experiences to determine their relevance in the ‘new normal’.

Embrace Technology:

Virtual meetings or networking are no longer just office buzzwords. The ‘new normal’ of technology and working from home is here to stay. It is crucial to get involved, whether that be by joining virtual events, adding yourself to professional groups on Facebook and LinkedIn, or joining recruitment discussions on social networking sites. This is especially important in an increasingly competitive job market; utilising technology can be a great way to differentiate yourself. For example, a video CV would be a great way to stand out from the crowd and grab a prospective employer’s attention.

Get Realistic & Stay Positive:

Economic uncertainties do breed opportunities. However, it is important to be realistic with your expectations, and approach the hassles and hurdles of the job search with a positive mindset. Energy and persistence conquer all things; be patient, and your efforts will be rewarded.

There are many ways of getting your dream job, irrespective of recession or meltdowns. Very often, it is about breaking the mould and believing in yourself that lands your dream job.

If you want to benefit from actionable insights that will help in a career change, read the book Get the job you really want- 2020 Edition